Creamy Cajun Shrimp, Sausage and Peppers
Ingredients
12 oz andouille sausage, sliced
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 small yellow onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp Cajun seasoning
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp tomato paste
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup half-and-half
2 oz cream cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 green onions, sliced
Method
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the andouille sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute.
Add chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
Stir in the half-and-half and cream cheese until smooth.
Add the shrimp and cooked sausage back to the skillet.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
Garnish with green onions.
To Serve
Spoon the Parmesan grits into bowls and top with the creamy shrimp, sausage, and pepper mixture.
One of the things I love about this creamy Cajun shrimp, sausage, and peppers dish is how it combines rich flavors with a straightforward cooking method that anyone can follow. Using andouille sausage adds a smoky, spicy depth that blends beautifully with the tender shrimp, while the trio of bell peppers and onion offers a sweet and crunchy contrast. The combination of smoked paprika and Cajun seasoning really brings out the bold Southern character in the dish. When making this recipe, I found it helpful to sauté the vegetables just until softened so they still retain a slight bite, which balances nicely against the creamy sauce. The half-and-half and cream cheese create a luscious base that coats the shrimp and sausage perfectly without being overly heavy. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the whole dish and lifts the flavors harmoniously. For an even more authentic experience, consider serving this mixture over warm Parmesan grits or creamy rice, which soak up the savory sauce wonderfully. You can adjust the heat to your preference by adding more or less Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. It's a versatile dish that comes together quickly, making it ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. Lastly, garnishing with sliced green onions not only adds a pop of color but provides a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the spiced elements. This recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of Cajun cuisine into your home kitchen with minimal fuss.
